At the entrance of the modest dwelling, a weathered red board stands out, with chalk-written words proudly declaring, “Awarded by the President of India, Dukhu Majhi.” Beside it leans an old, rusting bicycle, a silent reminder of the simplicity in which the awardee continues to live. Inside, however, the reality is heartbreaking. Dukhu Majhi, now 80 years old, shares the fragile home with his ailing wife and differently-abled son. Their house, patched up with makeshift repairs, struggles to withstand nature’s fury. The walls and roof are riddled with leaks, and despite desperate attempts to cover them with straw and plastic, the rains continue to seep through, leaving the mud floor damp and swamp-like. The structure itself appears ready to collapse at any moment, symbolizing the harsh irony of a man celebrated nationwide yet living in despair.
Just over a year ago, Majhi rose to fame when he was honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri award for his extraordinary dedication to the environment. Popularly known as “Gachh Dadu” or the Grandfather of Trees, Majhi has planted more than 5,000 trees across the rugged Ajodhya Hills of Purulia, a mission he began at the young age of 15. His relentless efforts to combat climate change and revive barren lands have earned him immense respect and recognition, both from the government and several organisations. Yet, despite his achievements, his present reality stands in stark contrast to the recognition he has received.
Day-to-day survival for the family is a constant struggle. Majhi has repeatedly appealed to the administration for a house under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, but his requests have gone unanswered. Though technically allotted a government-built house in the past, it is now occupied by his elder son, who moved in with his wife after marriage. Majhi explains that sharing the single small house with two families was simply not possible, leaving him, his wife, and younger son with no option but to continue living in the dilapidated mud house. His only heartfelt wish now is to have a secure and dignified shelter for his family — a place that can shield them from the rains and reflect the honour of his lifelong service to nature.
The situation recently caught public attention after visuals of his living condition spread on social media. Outrage and sympathy poured in, compelling political leaders to act. West Bengal’s Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, visited Majhi’s home and announced immediate financial support of ₹2 lakh to begin construction of a permanent house for him. Adhikari also assured that further assistance would follow to ensure the home is completed and the family is finally able to live with dignity.
For Dukhu Majhi, who has dedicated his entire life to nurturing forests and championing environmental protection, the recognition of his work is undeniable. Yet his story highlights a deeper irony — a Padma Shri awardee, celebrated for his service to the nation, continues to endure poverty and instability, longing for the very basic necessity of a safe home. His journey is a striking reminder that while awards can honour a person’s work, what truly matters is ensuring that such individuals live with respect, security, and dignity.
